VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Development Aid

Asked by Wendy MortonConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 25 June 2025UIN 60462

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what consideration has he given to staffing (a) levels and (b) structures in his Department following changes to levels of ODA spending.

Answered by Catherine West

The Foreign Secretary has been clear about the reform needed in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to ensure it is fit for the future and is delivering for the British people. The FCDO will consider the size and shape of its workforce in the context of the wider Spending Review settlement to ensure that it remains affordable. The Foreign Secretary is working closely with the Treasury to ensure our diplomatic, intelligence and development footprint will align with our priorities. We expect the department to become smaller as a result.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim